Billy Heaven buoyed by Stonehill support

published by ikhan on Thu, 01/30/2014 - 11:28

Jamaica Star article.

Kingston, Jamaica - President of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) Wilford 'Billy' Heaven has expressed delight at finding a gear and equipment sponsor for all various national teams over the next two years.

The sponsorship, which is valued at US$100,000 ($J10,545,300), will see Pakistan-based Stonehill Sports providing the teams with clothing, warm-up kits and other amenities, including balls over the period.

"It's a good deal that we have signed off on and for that I am really happy," said Heaven.

"Everyone knows that the procurement of gear and equipment is a big expenditure in sports, and especially as it relates to cricket, and to have Stonehill come on board is a more than welcome move.

"We applaud them for the venture and seeing the potential in cricket in nation building, as well as impacting young people's lives," he added.

The national teams set to benefit from the initiative include men's, women's and the varying junior Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 programmes.

The sponsorship, which starts immediately with Jamaica's participation in WICB NAGICO Insurance Super50, will also see select clubs and parish associations benefiting though participation in national competitions.

"I think it is a good deal for the JCA, especially in these tough economic times," said David Shirley, managing director of Locker Room Sports, Stonehill's local agent.

"It is one that we expect will ease the burden on the JCA, and one that we hope will bring benefit to Jamaica's cricket."

Jamaica joins Guyana and the Leeward Islands as regional teams who have signed on to Stonehill, whose regional headquarters is in Trinidad and Tobago.